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The JWL/CDC serves as the lead agency for the greater Jefferson Woodlawn Lake's area renewal efforts that focus on attracting consumers, private sector investment and employment opportunities.
The organization has formed four committees to assist with this endeavor: Business Development, Planning and Designing, Marketing and Promotions, and Organizational Considerations. Committee’s are comprised of business owners, neighborhood association members, and other stakeholders.
Many businesses participate in the revitalization efforts of the Deco District and the greater area. Since its inception, the District has generated $23,329,000 ++++ in private investment throughout this 1.5-mile section of Fredericksburg Road (between the I-10 Freeway and Vance Jackson Road). Successes enjoyed have resulted in the creation of 225 new jobs and and at least four (4) façade/building improvement projects within the revitalization target area.
The Deco District’s revitalization efforts are evident with the adaptive reuse of the landmark Texaco Building and the opening of many new businesses. In October 2002, H.E.B. Grocery Company opened a new “Deco” themed store, which anchors the corridor at the northern section. The JWL/CDC served as liaison between H.E.B. and adjacent neighborhoods to assist in bringing the project online successfully. Lengthy and delicate negotiations related to environmental and design issues were successfully facilitated by the JWL/CDC.
The JWL/CDC Office serves as a business development resource center for potential tenants, business owners, and area residents. CDC staff provides information on small business loan sources, business workshops, the City’s First Point Business Information Office, International Trade Center, the University of Texas at San Antonio Minority Business Development Center, and the Small Business Economic Development Advocacy Program. Visitors are provided the necessary resources to participate in the Revitalization Project as a business owner, resident, or volunteer.
Another available program, the Empowerment Zone, provides federal tax incentives to area businesses, property owners, and residents. Contact Kimberly Carter Schmittou at email@decodistrict.org or (210) 478-2987 or see the City of San Antonio website for more details.
The JWL/CDC monitors commercial activity throughout the area and organizes various community events to promote area identity and meet its Mission Statement. The JWL/CDC hosts a Christmas and Spring Arts and Crafts Fair each year. Deco District businesses decorate their storefronts and vendors set-up along Fredericksburg Road. The event draws visitors throughout San Antonio and allows the JWL/CDC to promote the Revitalization Project and attract new tenants.
The JWL/CDC also coordinates the Annual Deco District Miniature Golf Tournament at Cool Crest, which is one of the oldest miniature golf course in the country. Other community events include the “At Home in Monticello Tour of Homes” and the “Old Spanish Trail Bike Ride”.

A streetscape enhancement project is also being coordinated by the CDC in conjunction with the Deco Building renovations. Streetscape enhancements will stretch from W. Kings Highway to Quentin Avenue along Fredericksburg Road and include the placement of palm trees, landscaping and art deco signage. City bond funds in the amount of $400,000 have been committed to the CDC for this project through a funding agreement.
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